Springtime Shot

[fais54]

This is a older picture, but I wanted some critiques on the lighting, composition, and post-editing of it because I'm not completely sure on it. This was done outdoors, during the afternoon and very high sun. I realize now it's better to either shoot when it's cloudy or under shade (but our surroundings didn't permit that). Also, any DIY Reflector tips?


6.25.11 by Stefan Faison, on Flickr

Olympus E-520 14-42mm
ISO 100 - 1/60 - f/5.1

[Rentham]

Originally Posted by fais54

Also, any DIY Reflector tips?

Some white foamcore from a craft/hobby shop like Michaels, Jo Ann Fabrics, etc. Couple bucks a pop for a pretty large rectangular piece. But a nice Westcott 35" silver/white reversible reflector is like $30 bucks. I'd just get that.

[fais54]

Thanks Rentham, I'll try that with the white foamcore. Spending money on the 'official' thing would probably easier, but I have no problem with DIY stuff either How does the photo look otherwise?

[BexJarratt]

I'm quite a beginner, don't know much about lighting, but you're quite keen for comments so I'm willing to offer my opinion for what it's worth. For me, I think the lighting is a little flat. You've controlled the bright sun quite well by getting under the arm and branch so there doesn't seem to be too many hot spots on the face. Some on the shirt but not too excessive to me. But I think the light is quite full on to the face with a strong shadow under the chin. I wonder if a reflector slightly to the side would have cast some light at an angle to the face offering a bit more shape.

For me, I'm not sure about the arm grabbing the branch, it's quite a strong grasp, which doesn't seem to fit with the soft expression on the face. I might try cropping it out with a portrait crop.

Great catchlights in the eyes and very well captured soft, warm expression.

[fais54]

Thanks for that detailed critique! I think I agree with you about the grabbing the leaves.

[mariselafm]

I agree with the comment about the arm/hand position. Maybe if we were able to see your entire arm it would make more sense, but of course, that would be a different type of shot.

[fais54]

I think cropping the arm and hand would throw the composition off a tad bit.

[BexJarratt]

5928827709_248bb5b5db.jpg

Quick crop and really bad clone out of remaining thumb and knuckle. Composition is a bit weaker, but what do you think?

Maybe if there was a thicker branch that would take the weight of an arm the fingers could have rested here and the arm would be loose and relaxed to suit the face.

[fais54]

The cloning isn't the greatest , but I get that you didn't spend all day on it. It does give me an idea of what I can do on my own time. I actually think the tighter crop looks better. Thanks!